Key Diseases and Medical Advancements
Major Health Topics
Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes
The pancreas does not produce insulin. Caused by the action of several inherited genes; possible autoimmune origin. Requires chronic insulin treatment. Involves many blood glucose injections (and urine analysis). Requires careful management of sugar intake.
Type 2 Diabetes
Affects adults, often associated with obesity and an unhealthy lifestyle. The pancreas produces little insulin, or the effect of insulin is greatly diminished (insulin resistance). Treatment
Read MoreKey Concepts in Biology
Characteristics of Living Organisms
- Living things have motion; they move. Plants move in order to catch sunlight for photosynthesis.
- Living things respire. Respiration is a chemical reaction which occurs inside cells to release energy from the food consumed.
- Living things are sensitive to stimuli and have the ability to sense changes in their environment.
- They grow. Living things mature and grow through different stages of development.
- They acquire and fulfill nutritional requirements to survive through
Animal and Plant Reproduction Cycles
Reproduction and Life Cycles
The Reproduction Function
The function by which progenitor individuals give rise to new individuals, like themselves. There are two types:
- ASEXUAL: Takes place with only one individual who creates identical individuals.
- SEXUAL: Involves two individuals who originate descendants similar but not identical.
The Organic Cycle
These are the stages an organism passes through throughout its life, from zygote to adult. It has a few phases: REPRODUCTION, EMBRYONIC DEVELOPMENT, and
Read MoreCore Concepts in Biology, Ecology, and Geology
Ecology & Environment Concepts
Biotope
The non-living components within an ecosystem.
Symbiosis
A close and long-term interaction between two different biological species. Note: The original definition described a specific type, likely obligatory mutualism.
Mutualism
A relationship between individuals of different species where both individuals benefit.
Population
A group of individuals of the same species that share the same habitat.
Decomposers
Organisms that break down dead organic matter, turning
Read MoreScapula Bone: Anatomy, Function, and Injuries
The scapula, commonly known as the shoulder blade, is a flat, triangular-shaped bone located in the upper back. It plays a crucial role in shoulder movement, providing attachment points for muscles that facilitate arm and upper limb motion. The scapula is situated on the posterior aspect of the ribcage, specifically over ribs 2 to 7, and forms part of the shoulder girdle. It articulates with the humerus (upper arm bone) at the shoulder joint and the clavicle (collarbone) at the acromioclavicular
Read MoreCell Biology Fundamentals: Structure, Function, Types
Cell Theory Explained
Cell theory states:
- The cell is the fundamental structural and anatomical unit of all living organisms. All organisms are formed by one or more cells.
- The cell is the basic physiological or functional unit. Every cell is capable of maintaining life independently.
- Cells are the unit of genetic origin. Every cell derives from a pre-existing cell.
Common Characteristics of All Cells
All cells share these common characteristics:
- A cell membrane
- A set of structures called organelles
- Genetic